What Is the Easiest Way to Remove an Ingrown Toenail?
Quick Answer:
For mild cases, the easiest and safest way to manage an ingrown toenail at home is to soak your foot, gently lift the edge of the nail, and place a soft barrier underneath to encourage proper growth. These simple home remedies for ingrown toenails can provide relief. However, if you notice pain, swelling, or signs of infection, professional ingrown toenail treatment from a podiatrist in Baulkham Hills is the safest solution.
What Causes Ingrown Toenails?
Ingrown toenails develop when the corner or side of a nail begins to grow into the surrounding skin. This can cause pain, redness, swelling, and sometimes an infection. Common causes include:
Cutting nails too short or rounding the edges
Wearing tight, narrow, or ill-fitting shoes
Toe injuries or repeated pressure on the nail
Naturally curved or thick nails
They most commonly affect the big toe but can occur on any toenail, Proper foot care podiatry can help prevent recurring issues.
Nearly 50% of ingrown toenail cases are linked to incorrectly trimmed nails.
Source: National Health Service (NHS), UK
Can You Treat an Ingrown Toenail at Home?
Not every ingrown toenail can be safely treated at home. It’s generally safe to try home remedies for ingrown toenails if:
There are no signs of infection (such as pus or spreading redness)
You don’t have diabetes, circulation issues, or reduced sensation in your feet
The pain is mild to moderate
Step-by-Step: The Easiest Home Method
For mild ingrown toenails, you can follow these steps to ease discomfort and encourage the nail to grow out properly:
Soak your foot – Use warm water with mild soap or Epsom salt for 15–20 minutes, 2–3 times daily. This softens the skin and nail.
Dry carefully – Pat the area dry with a clean towel.
Lift the nail edge gently – Using clean hands and sterile tweezers or floss, carefully raise the nail corner without forcing it.
Insert a soft barrier – Place a small piece of cotton or dental floss under the nail to keep it lifted. Replace after each soak.
Apply antiseptic – Use a mild antiseptic or antibiotic ointment and cover with a light bandage.
Wear open or roomy shoes – Avoid pressure on the toe by choosing footwear with plenty of space.
With consistent care, mild cases usually improve within a couple of weeks. What to Expect With Orthotics
When to Seek Professional Help
Home care won’t always solve the problem. You should see a podiatrist if:
The pain becomes severe
You notice infection (redness, pus, swelling, warmth)
You have diabetes or circulation concerns
The toenail repeatedly grows back ingrown
People with diabetes are at higher risk
Individuals with diabetes have a 2–4x increased risk of developing infections from ingrown toenails.
Source: Diabetes Australia
Professional Treatment Options
At a podiatry clinic, several treatments are available depending on the severity of the ingrown toenail:
Partial nail removal – The ingrown section of the nail is carefully removed under local anaesthetic.
Complete nail removal – In more severe cases, the whole nail may be removed to allow proper healing.
Nail bracing or splinting – Special devices are used to guide the nail into a healthier growth pattern.
These procedures are quick, safe, and effective at preventing recurrence.
you can also read : How does a podiatrist remove an ingrown toenail?
How to Prevent Ingrown Toenails
The easiest way to avoid the problem altogether is through good foot care habits:
Cut nails straight across, not too short, and avoid rounding the corners
Wear shoes with a wide toe box that doesn’t squeeze your toes
Keep feet clean and dry
Check your toenails regularly if you’re prone to issues
Good foot care podiatry and proper nail habits are the easiest way to avoid ingrown toenails.
Final Word
Ingrown toenails can be incredibly painful, and they often worsen if left untreated — but you don’t need to put up with the discomfort. When home remedies stop helping or the swelling, redness, or pain increases, it’s time to see a qualified podiatrist in Baulkham Hills for proper care.
At Podhills Podiatry, we specialise in gentle, effective ingrown toenail treatment, including non-invasive options like nail bracing and expert podiatric procedures designed to relieve pressure quickly. Our team focuses on personalised, stress-free care so you can get back on your feet without ongoing pain.
Don’t wait for the problem to escalate — book your appointment at Podhills Podiatry today and experience fast, professional relief from your ingrown toenail. Your feet will thank you.
FAQs
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You can manage mild cases at home with warm foot soaks and gentle lifting of the nail. However, do not attempt to cut or dig into the nail. This can worsen the condition or cause infection. If pain is persistent, visit a podiatry clinic for safe care.
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Signs of infection include redness, swelling, heat, pus, or increasing pain. If you notice these symptoms, book an appointment for ingrown toenail treatment as soon as possible. Infection can spread if left untreated.
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No. Ingrown toenail procedures are done under local anaesthetic, so you won’t feel pain during the treatment. Most patients experience relief immediately after the procedure.
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Recovery is usually quick. Most people resume normal walking the same day and are fully comfortable within a few days. Your podiatrist will provide aftercare instructions to ensure smooth healing.